Turkey chase draws crowd

The streets of historic Bluffton were filled with turkeys and Native Americans as runners from around the Lowcountry began their day of excessive eating at the 2nd Annual Turkey Chase in downtown Bluffton.

Karen Floyd and Terri Mahoney, owners of Play Hard Event Timing, the company that organized the 5K, were encouraged by the turnout.

“We began this race last year on really short notice and attracted a nice crowd,” Floyd explained.

“However, after the race, comments really exploded online as to how much fun the race was, what great prizes we had and what a great family event it was. This year we really saw that as our turnout was much larger.”

David Jirousek was the overall winner finishing in 17:33. Greg John captured second finishing with a time of 19:01 and barely edged out Daniel Gareic who finished in third with a time of 19:02. Top female runners were Suzanne Chiappone finishing with a time of 19:11, Mary Evan Ferell with 19:50 and Allison Piroj with 22:40.

After the 5K race, children had the opportunity to race from the edge of Bridge and Wharf street chasing a “turkey” down to the Bluffton Oyster Factory park where runners had gathered for the awards ceremony.

Winners won prizes ranging from frozen turkeys and turkey breasts to pumpkin pies and T-shirts and also included adult “turkey-themed” beverages for the over 21-crowd.

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